FRANCE
HOW TO TRAVEL TO FRANCE
How To Travel To France: Complete Guide 2026
France welcomes millions of visitors every year with its iconic landmarks, diverse regions, and unparalleled culture. This practical guide covers everything you need for a smooth trip: transportation options, current visa/entry rules (including ETIAS), best seasons to visit, and essential tips.
Essential Steps for Traveling to France
1. Choose Your Transportation
France is easily accessible by air, train, or road, depending on your starting point.
By Air: Most international visitors fly into Paris-Charles de Gaulle (CDG), Paris-Orly (ORY), or regional hubs like Nice (NCE) and Lyon (LYS). Direct flights are available from major cities worldwide.
By Train: Eurostar from London, Thalys/TGV from Belgium/Netherlands/Germany, or high-speed links from Italy and Spain.
By Car/Ferry: Drive via Channel Tunnel or ferry from UK/Ireland; excellent highways from neighboring countries.
Top 5 Tips:
- Book flights mid-week for lower fares
- Use SNCF Connect app for French train tickets
- Consider RoissyBus or RER for affordable CDG-Paris transfer
- Rent automatic cars if not comfortable with manual
- Buy a France rail pass if planning multi-city train travel
2. Understand Visa & Entry Rules
France is part of the Schengen Area. Rules depend on your nationality and stay length.
Visa-Free (90 days): Citizens of EU/EEA, USA, Canada, UK, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and many others.
Schengen Visa Required: For certain nationalities – apply at French consulate.
ETIAS (from mid-2026): Mandatory online authorization for visa-exempt travelers (€7, valid 3 years).
Top 5 Requirements:
- Passport valid 3+ months beyond departure
- Proof of onward travel
- Evidence of accommodation
- Travel insurance recommended (min €30,000 coverage)
- Sufficient funds (€120/day if no prepaid accommodation)
3. Pick the Best Time to Visit
France is beautiful year-round, but seasons dramatically affect crowds, prices, and experiences.
Spring (Apr–Jun) & Fall (Sep–Oct): Ideal – mild weather, blooming landscapes or autumn colors, fewer tourists.
Summer (Jul–Aug): Warmest, festivals, beaches busy – highest prices and crowds.
Winter (Dec–Mar): Ski season in Alps, Christmas markets, lower rates in cities.
Top 5 Seasonal Highlights:
- Spring: Lavender preview in Provence, tulips in Paris parks
- Summer: Bastille Day fireworks, Riviera beaches
- Fall: Wine harvest festivals, fewer lines at Louvre
- Winter: Strasbourg Christmas market, skiing in Chamonix
- Shoulder months: Best hotel deals and pleasant temperatures
4. Plan Internal Transport
France’s transport network is efficient and scenic.
Trains: TGV high-speed network – fastest between major cities.
Regional: TER trains and buses for countryside.
Cities: Excellent metro/tram systems; walk or bike in smaller towns.
Top 5 Options:
- SNCF TGV – Book early for cheapest Prem fares
- Ouigo – Budget high-speed trains
- Intercités de Nuit – Overnight sleeper trains
- BlaBlaCar – Popular ridesharing for rural routes
- Le Pass Interrail/Eurail – Unlimited travel for non-EU residents
5. Budget & Practical Essentials
Prepare for a smooth stay with these basics.
Currency: Euro (€). Cards widely accepted; notify bank of travel.
Language: French official; English common in tourist areas.
Power: Type E plugs, 230V – bring adapter.
Top 5 Money-Saving Tips:
- Buy Paris Pass or regional museum passes
- Eat picnics from markets/bakeries
- Use Vélib’ or city bike shares
- Book trains 3 months ahead for discounts
- Stay just outside city centers for lower rates
Disclaimer: Entry requirements and travel conditions can change. Always check official sources (French government websites, your embassy, and etias.com when live) before departure. Information current as of January 2026.